Concerns are being raised about a new model for selecting a President
put forward by the Australian Republic Movement. These highlight unintended
consequences of moving too quickly in changing to a “Republic” model.
One key issue that is unclear, is what people expect an
Australian President to do!
Perhaps the President should be the champion of the
Constitution as Chair of a Constitutional Council, that advocates for an
effective and contemporary Constitution. The balance of the role could be clearly
defined in terms of official and ceremonial responsibilities - and the
requirement to avoid any political or partisan activity.
Glenn Barnes
Licia Heath
Marcus Gordon